Sam Baldwin and Matthew Hofman led the way to several PVTC “firsts” with their production of The Last Five Years. First, they produced a two-person show and directed themselves, along with a third cast member (Sheyenne Lang) who played the brief, walk-on role of “Mistress.” Second, hoping for an intimate feel that the large proscenium stage at FMHS couldn’t provide, the team got creative. Closing the main drapes of the stage, they seated the audience of about 65 on stage with the performers. They created a “thrust” space, or a performance area with audience members on 3 sides of the performers, using a couple of platforms and set pieces, while seating the audience around the edges of the stage. Because of this staging, PVTC had the added challenge and opportunity to add new lighting instruments to their repertoire. The smaller venue created the perfect setting for such a raw and vulnerable performance.